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How Nettle's
technology works

Nettle’s non-invasive brain-based approach to menstrual wellbeing is the first of it’s kind. Here we explain how this technology works to optimise your wellbeing and manage symptoms.

How does Nettle work?

During your luteal phase, fluctuations occur in certain brain regions which contribute to symptoms of PMS and menstrual pain such as low mood, anxiety, brain fog and cramps.


Your brain runs on electricity, and neurons communicate using electrical signals called action potentials. Nettle uses the natural language of neurons to activate them and enable more effective connection between them.

This is done by administering safe and small electrical pulses to brain regions where these fluctuations occur. We are able to target them via the placement of the electrodes on the headband, one targeting your dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and the other targeting your insula via your motor cortex (M1).

This stimulation gets neurons firing in a way that is more consistent with follicular phase activity, empowering you to feel your best even during the premenstrual phase.

What parts of the brain does Nettle target?

THE PREFRONTAL CORTEX

Responsible for emotional regulation

Nettle specifically targets the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), a region crucial for regulating emotions and cognitive functions. It plays a critical role in modulating responses to emotional stimuli and stress, essential for maintaining emotional stability. In individuals suffering from PMS, the DLPFC may be underactive or functioning suboptimally. By targeting and supporting this area, Nettle helps regulate the intense emotional responses often experienced by those with PMS.

THE MOTOR CORTEX

Plays a role in pain perception

The motor cortex, specifically the primary motor cortex (M1), plays a role in the modulation of chronic pain, by indirectly modulating the activity of the posterior insula. Studies suggest that disruptions in the motor cortex can contribute to central sensitisation, a condition where the central nervous system is in a heightened state of reactivity, lowering the pain-perception threshold. By stimulating the motor cortex, Nettle can recalibrate the neural pathways that play a role in regulating the perception of chronic pain. This stimulation has shown to increase the pain-perception threshold.

Your journey with Nettle

Like all good things, Nettle takes time to work, and you won't feel results overnight. It's not like popping a pill or using a quick fix. Instead, Nettle needs consistent use over at least three cycles to show its full effects. This way, you're making steady progress without any sudden changes to your mind or body.

Cycle 1

This is the activation phase. Your brain begins to adapt to brain stimulation, with initial neural pathways starting to regenerate and respond to the electrical pulses. Most users feel a reduction in pain as soon as the first cycle.

Cycle 2

You are reminded to use Nettle by the Samphire mobile app which you will have cycle synced with. During your second cycle, the effects of brain stimulation begin to strengthen. At the brain level, you are experiencing enhanced neuroplasticity, with neural pathways starting to regenerate.

Cycle 3

You have reached the strengthening phase where you will start to fully experience Nettle's effect on mood and pain symptoms. At this stage, for most users, neuromodulation rebalances the brain fluctuations typical in the premenstrual phase, empowering you to feel your best throughout your cycle.

Purchase a Nettle Device

Devices will begin shipping in August to the UK, keep an eye out for an email with your tracking details.

Download our App

The Samphire Neuroscience app will be available to download by mid-July. Optionally set up CycleSync, our cycle tracking and symptom logging feature. It helps notify you when your first Nettle session is due.

Start Stimulating!

Run each 20 minute session while meditating, doing breath work, replying to emails, watching TV or anything your heart desires on that day. Staying consistent yields the best results. Trust the process and enjoy your journey!

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